When you think of a dessert that can warm your heart and spice up any occasion, you can’t go wrong with a spice cake. This delightful cake combines a medley of flavors that invoke comfort and nostalgia. Imagine the scent of freshly baked cake wafting through your kitchen, filled with notes of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Spice cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting experience that can uplift your spirits and bring people together.
Why We Love This Spice Cake Recipe
You might wonder, what makes this spice cake stand out? The answer lies in its rich and complex flavor profile, which is enhanced by a blend of spices that create warmth in every bite. The combination of dark brown sugar and granulated sugar makes for a moist and rich cake texture, while the cream cheese frosting adds a sweet, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the spices.
This spice cake is not just delicious; it’s remarkably easy to make. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a straightforward approach that yields impressive results. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a cake that is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients for Spice Cake
To embark on your spice cake adventure, gather the following ingredients. These are the essentials that will come together to create an irresistible treat.
- 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3/4 teaspoon allspice
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup neutral cooking oil (such as avocado, canola, or vegetable oil)
- 3 large eggs, preferably at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
For the icing, you will need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Spice Cake
Making your spice cake is a joyfully straightforward process that follows these simple steps. As you mix and mix, let the aromas of the spices fill your kitchen, igniting your excitement for what’s to come.
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your chosen baking pan will ensure that your spice cake comes out perfectly without any sticking issues.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and a medley of spices including cinnamon, ginger, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg. This step is crucial as it allows the spices to be evenly distributed throughout the cake.
Add Wet Ingredients: Next, pour in the melted butter and cooking oil. Stir this mixture until everything is well combined. The combination of these fats is what gives your cake its moistness.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Using an electric mixer, add the eggs and vanilla extract into your mixture. Beat until fully combined. This is where your batter starts to come alive!
Cream in Dairy: Now, it’s time to stir in the sour cream and whole milk. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the yummy goodness evenly.
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Then, pop it into the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Down: Once baked, allow your cake to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here!
Prepare the Icing: While your cake cools, whip up the icing by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until creamy and fully incorporated.
Ice the Cake: Once your spice cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese icing generously over the top. Take a moment to admire your handiwork; you’ve just made something special!
How to Serve Spice Cake
Serving your spice cake can be as elegant or as casual as you desire. Here are some tips to make your spice cake experience even better:
Presentation: For a delightful touch, consider dusting the top of the icing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few whole spices such as star anise for garnishing. This not only adds a beautiful look but also hints at the incredible flavors inside.
Pairing: Consider pairing your spice cake with a dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A hot beverage, like chai tea or coffee, complements the spices wonderfully.
Slice With Care: To achieve clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This will keep the presentation neat and appealing.
Serving Suggestions: Spice cake is wonderful on its own, but you can elevate it with toppings like chopped nuts, candied orange peel, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Expert Tips: Spice Cake
To ensure your spice cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and dairy products. This helps your batter come together more smoothly and can result in a lighter cake.
Fresh Spices: Utilize fresh ground spices whenever possible, as they enhance the flavor significantly. If your spices are older than six months, consider replacing them for the best taste.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until everything is combined for the lightest texture.
Cooling Is Key: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting. If it’s too warm, the icing may melt and slide off, ruining your beautiful creation.
Taste Testing: Before serving, take a moment to taste test your cake. Adjust the sweetness of your icing if necessary to ensure it perfectly balances with the cake’s flavor.
How to Store Spice Cake
Storing your spice cake correctly will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Here are some tips for proper storage:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat your cake within a few days, you can store it at room temperature. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep your spice cake in the refrigerator. This is especially important if you have used cream cheese frosting, which requires refrigeration. Just make sure it is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing odors.
Freezing: If you want to store your cake for an extended period, spice cake freezes exceptionally well. Slice the cooled cake into pieces, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Variations of Spice Cake
The beauty of spice cake lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try to add your personal touch:
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter before baking for an added crunch and flavor.
Apple Spice: Incorporate grated apples into the batter. This will add moisture and a wonderful fruity undertone to your cake.
Chocolate Twist: For a rich flavor twist, mix in some cocoa powder or add chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolate-spice cake mashup.
Frosting Alternatives: Experiment with different frosting options, such as a maple syrup buttercream or a whipped cream with cinnamon for varied tastes.
Vegan Option: You can create a vegan version by substituting eggs with flaxseed meal and using plant-based dairy options. This way, more people can enjoy the deliciousness of spice cake.
FAQ: Spice Cake
What makes spice cake different from other cakes?
Spice cake is distinct due to its unique blend of spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, which add depth and warmth not typically found in other cakes. Its rich texture and flavors make it comforting and perfect for any season.
Can I use different spices in spice cake?
Absolutely! While traditional spice cake relies on cinnamon and other classic spices, you can customize your spice cake by including your favorites or experimenting with things like cardamom or star anise.
How long will spice cake last?
When stored properly, spice cake can last for about 3-5 days at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator. If frozen, it can last for up to three months.
Is spice cake suitable for special occasions?
Yes, spice cake is fantastic for any occasion! Whether it’s a holiday gathering, birthdays, or simply a cozy get-together, its rich flavor and comforting essence make it a beloved choice.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just wait until you’re ready to serve it before icing to keep it fresh.
Spice Cake
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Pan
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
- 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1/2 tsp. baking soda
- 1 tsp. salt
- 2 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground ginger
- 3/4 tsp. allspice
- 3/4 tsp. ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
- 12 Tbsp. unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup neutral cooking oil (such as avocado, canola, or vegetable oil)
- 3 large eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- Add the melted butter and cooking oil, stirring until well combined.
- Using an electric mixer, add eggs and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
- Stir in sour cream and whole milk, scraping the sides of the bowl to mix well.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a bit, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the icing, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until creamy.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese icing generously over the top.
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